I decided to take the short way. I was tired of feeling like a ghost in the hallways of my own home. Alaric stayed close to me, his hand resting on the small of my back, while Emma trailed a few steps behind us. We reached the library doors, and I could smell that heavy, floral perfume again. It was thick enough to make my head swim.
"I have to check on something in the study," Alaric said, pausing at the door. "Will you be okay for five minutes? Emma is right here."
I looked at Emma, who gave me a calm nod. "I'll be fine, Alaric. Go."
He kissed my temple and walked away. I took a deep breath and pushed the heavy doors open. The library was huge, with walls covered in books that went all the way to the top. Isabella was sitting in a large chair by the fireplace, sipping tea. She didn't
